Prakt. lékáren. 2016; 12(1): 16-17 | DOI: 10.36290/lek.2016.004

ADHD in childhood, adolescence, and adulthood

Ivo Paclt

Psychiatrická klinika 1. LF UK, Praha

The article presents clear information on the topic of ADHD, or hyperkinetic conduct disorder and attention disorder, DSM–V, ICD–10.

The fundamental condition is attention disorder that is determined biologically (genetically or perinatally). These aetiological factors

cause a relatively precisely defined developmental change in the CNS that mainly involves the prefrontal cortex and basal ganglia, is

accompanied by deficiency of the dopamine and noradrenaline neurotransmitters, and this deficiency is very successfully managed by

administering stimulants or atomoxetine. The developmental issues are defined by various trajectories of symptom regression, some

of which are merely hypothetical (symptom regression at preschool age or around ten years of age), while others are unquestionable,

during puberty and early adulthood. Both pharmacological and psychotherapeutic treatments are of importance. Inadequate care

often results in the development of serious comorbid conditions, including drug addiction. The disorder occurs in preschoolers,

schoolchildren, adolescents, and, in part of the patients, in adulthood. It is a neurodevelopmental disorder, the best-studied condition

in psychiatry, particularly in terms of the biological substrate of the CNS, and one with very successful pharmacotherapy.

Keywords: ADHD, hyperkinetic conduct disorder, neurodevelopmental disorder, pharmacotherapy

Published: February 1, 2016  Show citation